SPECIALISED CELLS

ANIMAL CELLS

FunctionThe function of a Epithelial cell is to cover the outer surface of the body, line cavities

and protect surfaces of organs. Used in absorption and excretion of substances, or

water-proofing.

Epithelial cell

StructureThe Structure of a Epithelial cell is

small, fit well together and can have hair-like structures called cilia coming

from them.

Nerve cellFunction

Transmit electrical signals around the body.

How is it specialised?The cilia provide a large surface area

ideal for lining the gut, to help absorption or excretion. They may

also secrete liquids to help lubricate surfaces.

StructureVery long, thread-like cells.

How is it specialised?The long cells make up nerve

fibres, which join senses organs, e. g. touch sense organs in the

hand , to the brain.

Sperm cell

FunctionFertilises egg, enabling

information to be transferred from one generation to the

next.

StructureLooks like a microscopic

tadpole. Contains generic information from the father.

How is it adapted to the function?

The tail allows it to swim about. Has a special coating on its head, used to digest

its way into an egg.

FunctionCarry oxygen around

the body

Red blood cell

StructureBiconcave ( a dip in the

middle of each side)

How is it adapted to the function?

Shape increases their surface area, which helps

them absorb oxygen. Bendiness helps them to pass down thin capillary

blood vessels.

Red blood cell

Sperm cell

PLANT CELLSRoot hair cell

FunctionAbsorb water and

minerals from the soil

StructureLong and thin with large

surface area.

How is it adapted to the function?

Long, thin structure provides a large surface

area to help absorption of water and minerals. Don’t contain chlorophyll as they are usually underground, so can’t photosynthesis.

Pollen cellFunction

Fertilization of the egg cell. Contains generic

information.

StructureSmall and light

How is it adapted to the functionThe pollen cell and ovule join to

make a new and unique plant. This allows generic information to be

transferred from one generation to the next.

Palisade cellFunction

Photosynthesis

StructureTransparent regularly

shaped cells with chloroplasts.

How is it adapted to the function

Sunlight passes through the cell to the chlorophyll.

Chlorophyll changes water and carbon dioxide into

food.

THE END

By: Alicia Stephanie Siekierski